Quick Beat Mapping in Pro Tools

By Matt Ho

As a rule, we shoot for perfection when recording. While this is a good mindset to have, the reality is that oftentimes prior to mixing, some level of editing is required in order to polish up our tracks and help our song shine as a whole. Beat mapping is one tool in Pro Tools we can use to edit tracks efficiently. 

Beat Detective (quickest, various accuracy)

Learn this shortcut:

• Command + “NumPad 8”

Using capture selection, and hitting generate, would allow you to get a close estimate of what the bpm of a clip or a song is.

Transient detection and identify beat (Slower, higher accuracy)

Learn these shortcuts:

• Tab (tab to transient)
• Command + I (identify beat)

Rinse and repeat for the whole song.

Sign-up for a Peer Training today if you’d like to learn more about these and other topics at library.berklee.edu/training